Pakistan is grappling with a severe fuel crisis, marked by acute shortages and sharp price increases at the pumps. The situation has been exacerbated by regional supply chain disruptions linked to ongoing tensions in West Asia and the Gulf, which have impacted global energy flows.
In Karachi, long queues formed at petrol stations as frustrated citizens confronted the soaring costs. Verified data shows the price of petrol has risen to PKR 458.40 per litre, while high-speed diesel is being sold at PKR 520.35 per litre. These hikes have placed a significant burden on households and businesses alike.
The government has acknowledged the supply issues, attributing them to logistical challenges and payment complications with international suppliers. Authorities are attempting to secure alternative shipments to alleviate the shortage, but no immediate resolution is in sight.
The crisis has sparked widespread public anger and become a major topic of discussion on social media, where users are sharing experiences of long waits and high costs, using phrases like "Pehle aata nhi tha..." (First there was no flour...) to critique the compounding economic hardships.